Delhi’s air quality remained in the “very poor” category on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 349.

While this shows a slight statistical improvement from Tuesday’s “severe” levels, a thick, toxic smog continues to choke the National Capital Region. The hazardous conditions led to significant disruptions, with at least 15 flights and 20 trains delayed due to low visibility.

In response, authorities have intensified enforcement of the “No PUC, No Fuel” policy and initiated strict legal action against non-compliant industrial units.

Environment officials warned that stagnant wind conditions are trapping pollutants, making the air particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups.

Transport Chaos in Delhi

The persistent toxic haze has severely impacted the city’s transport infrastructure, causing a ripple effect of delays. On Wednesday morning, visibility at the Indira Gandhi International Airport dropped below 500 metres, forcing several airlines to issue travel advisories.

At least 15 flights were delayed, while over 20 Delhi-bound trains were held up for hours. Commuters on the city’s highways faced treacherous driving conditions as the dense smog reduced sightlines to a minimum.

Transport officials have urged citizens to use public transit like the Delhi Metro to reduce vehicular load, but the physical reality of the “gas chamber” effect remains a daily struggle for millions. However, airport operations continue normal now, Delhi airport shared the update on X.

Travel Hacks for Smog Season

• Check Visibility Reports: Before heading out on highways, check the India Meteorological Department (IMD) fog alerts to avoid being caught in zero-visibility conditions.
• Recirculate Car Air: While driving, keep windows rolled up and set your car’s AC to “recirculate” mode to prevent outdoor exhaust from entering the cabin.
• Use Public Transport: Opt for the Delhi Metro to avoid the heavy concentration of pollutants found along congested road corridors and traffic jams.
• Wash Upon Arrival: Change your clothes and wash your face and hair after returning from a long commute to remove settled toxic particles.
• Avoid Peak Hours: If your schedule allows, travel during midday when the sun helps disperse the smog slightly, as early mornings are often the most toxic.

Delhi Mandates PUC Move

To combat the rising pollution levels, the Delhi government has doubled down on its “No PUC, No Fuel” policy. Petrol pumps across the capital are under strict instructions to deny fuel to any vehicle without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate.

Authorities have also cracked down on errant testing centres found to be issuing fraudulent certificates. Over 12 such centres were sealed this week alone. By targeting vehicular emissions, the administration hopes to cut down on the primary source of local PM2.5 particles.

However, the move has faced mixed reactions from commuters who complain of long queues at testing stations during the peak pollution season.

Crackdown On Industrial Polluters

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has launched a massive drive against industrial units that continue to bypass environmental norms. Officials confirmed that dozens of factories in industrial clusters have been served closure notices for failing to use clean fuel or proper filtration systems.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that the government is taking a “zero-tolerance” approach toward units burning solid waste or using unauthorized fuel types. “We cannot allow profit to come at the cost of the city’s lungs,” Sirsa remarked during a press briefing.

These enforcement teams are also monitoring construction sites to ensure dust suppression measures, such as water sprinkling and anti-smog guns, are being utilized.

Health Impacts of Poor Air Quality

Exposure to high pollution levels, especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5), poses a significant risk as these tiny particles can enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Short-term effects include itchy eyes, throat irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Over time, however, “very poor” air can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, heart attacks, strokes, and reduced lung capacity. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD, are at the highest risk. Recent studies even link long-term exposure to systemic inflammation and cognitive decline.

How to Stay Safe During Pollution

• Monitor Real-Time Data: Use apps like SAFAR-Air or AQI.in to check levels before stepping out; avoid outdoor activity when the AQI is above 200.
• Mask Up Properly: Use N95 or N99 respirators that fit snugly; standard cloth or surgical masks do not filter out PM2.5 particles.
• Purify Indoor Air: Keep windows and doors closed during peak pollution hours (early morning and late evening) and use HEPA air purifiers if possible.
• Hydrate and Nourish: Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins and consume antioxidant-rich foods like citrus fruits, ginger, and turmeric to combat inflammation.
• Reduce Indoor Sources: Avoid burning incense sticks, candles, or wood, and ensure proper ventilation while cooking to prevent indoor pollutant build-up.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

The recurring environmental crisis in Delhi is a heartbreaking reminder of our collective failure to safeguard the fundamental right to breathe. While policies like “No PUC, No Fuel” are necessary steps, they often feel like band-aids on a deep, systemic wound.

We believe that a sustainable solution requires more than just government mandates; it needs a radical shift in urban planning and a transition to green energy. Empathy for our environment must become a core value in our development story.

It is time we stop viewing clean air as a seasonal luxury and start treating it as a non-negotiable human right for every child growing up in our capital.

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